The Tizen OS is a Linux-based operating system that many see as a possible competitor to the more closed Android and iOS operating systems.

While Samsung has yet to announce the specifics of models, prices, or timeframe’s for the upcoming Tizen devices; the new handsets will likely be a way for the Korean manufacturer to hedge it bets. With the Tizen OS, Samsung will be able to lessen its dependence on Google (the maker of the popular Android Operating System) who recently acquired Motorola Mobility Holdings Inc. for $12.5 billion in May.

Executives from Intel, Samsung NTT DoCoMo Inc. and Vodafone Group Plc. came together to form the Tizen Association last year .

Tizen seems like Samsung’s best bet to remain at the top of the mobile market, especially with Google now ramping up to be a big player. The Tizen deal also gives Intel a chance to become involved in the mobile CPU market.

While Samsung has remained tight lipped about the launch of its Tizen handsets, it is likely that the first Tizen phones will be offered through Japanese carrier NTT DoCoMo; as previously indicated in the report from Japanese newspaper Yomiuri Shimbun. The report cited sources that it did not identify.